Leica Summicron-M 50mm f/2 V

Leica Summicron-M 50mm f/2 V5

The Leica Summicron-M 50mm f/2 V5 is the fifth mechanical version of Leica’s long-running M-mount 50mm Summicron standard lens. Introduced in 1994 as the successor to the earlier 11819 version, the V5 retained the established 6 elements in 4 groups optical formula while introducing a revised barrel with an integrated telescopic hood and more modern handling [1]. Leica’s current technical description confirms the same 6/4 optical construction, 0.7m close focus distance, compact 43.5mm length, approximately 53mm diameter, and approximately 240g weight for the black anodized version [2].

The lens is rangefinder-coupled, uses E39 filters, and focuses from 0.7m to infinity. It is widely valued as a compact general-purpose 50mm M lens with a mature double-Gauss-derived Summicron optical character. Leica describes the current Summicron-M 50 f/2 as a compact lens with strong contrast, low flare through coated glass, and an integrated, extendable hood. The V5 should be distinguished from the APO-Summicron-M 50mm f/2 ASPH., which is a separate modern apochromatic lens with a different optical design and collector category.

Collectors should note that “V5” generally refers to the 1994 onward mechanical version with built-in hood, most commonly order number 11826 in black. Leica Classic identifies the 11826 as produced from 1994 to present and describes it as an evolution of the earlier 11819, with a modernized barrel, built-in hood, and updated coatings. Later production lenses may be factory six-bit coded, while earlier examples are usually uncoded. The 11719 code is reported by Kamerastore as a Portugal production code for black Type V lenses, so buyers should check country engraving, box label, six-bit status, serial number, and matching accessories before buying [5].

History

Development and Launch

The 50mm f/2 Summicron-M optical formula used by the V4 and V5 generation dates to the late 1970s and is associated by Leica Wiki with Walter Mandler, Erich Wagner, and Garry Edwards, with design work dated 16 May 1977 [3]. The V5 version was introduced in 1994 and kept the same basic optical layout while updating the exterior design. Its role in the Leica M lineup was to provide a compact, moderate-speed standard lens below the faster Summilux and Noctilux lenses, but smaller, lighter, and simpler than those alternatives.

Production Evolution

The principal V5 change from the 11819 generation was mechanical rather than optical. The 11826 added a built-in telescopic lens hood and revised barrel styling while retaining the 6 elements in 4 groups formula. Leica Wiki lists the broader Summicron-M 50mm f/2 family from 1979 to current, with Leica M bayonet mount, E39 filters, 0.7m focusing, 43.5mm length, 53mm diameter, and weights of approximately 240g for black or clear anodized versions and approximately 335g for silver or titanium-finish versions. Current production remains available as the black anodized Summicron-M 50 f/2, with factory specifications matching the compact V5 profile.

Special Variants

Several special and finish variants are relevant for matching and collector indexing. The black 11826 is the standard V5 reference. The silver chrome 11816 is a heavier brass-bodied variant. The titanium-finish 11624 is documented by Leica Classic and Kamerastore as a rare titanium version, with only 500 examples produced [4]. The olive green Summicron-M 50 f/2 Edition “Safari”, order number 11824, was announced as a 500-unit special edition with red feet-scale and focal-length engravings, white remaining engravings, and the same technical functions and optical performance as the serial Summicron-M 50 f/2 [6]. Other Summicron-M 50mm special editions, including RPS Centenary, Dutch Flag, Colombo, and 50 Jahre Summicron examples, are documented in the broader Summicron-M 50mm family, but some belong to earlier or retro-styled versions rather than the standard V5 barrel[7].

Collector Notes

Collectors should verify whether the lens is an early uncoded example or a later six-bit coded example, because the 11826 designation alone does not confirm coding. The most common configuration is black anodized aluminum at approximately 240g, while silver and titanium-finish lenses are heavier and more collectible because of their brass construction. Check that the built-in hood slides correctly, the aperture ring clicks cleanly, the focusing helicoid is smooth, and the lens is free from haze, fungus, cleaning marks, coating damage, or oil on the aperture blades. For special editions, confirm the correct order number, engraving color, finish, box label, serial number, caps, leather case, papers, and whether the lens is an authentic factory variant rather than a repainted or mismatched standard lens.